adjective

1. much smaller than ordinary or average; very small; tiny
2. Gram. expressing smallness or diminution a diminutive suffix or name

Etymology: ME & OFr diminutif < LL diminutivus < pp. of L deminuere, diminish

noun

1. a very small person or thing
2. 1. a word or name formed from another by the addition of a suffix expressing smallness in size or, sometimes, endearment or condescension, as ringlet (ring + -let), Jackie (Jack + -ie), lambkin (lamb + -kin)
   2. such a suffix